INSIDE
ASARC Leaders reaffirm commitment in strengthening ASEAN
STORY BELOW
VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1
ASEAN JAM DAILY
NOV 28 2017 TAGUM CITY PHILIPPINES
T H E O F F I C I A L D A I LY N E W S L E T T E R O F T H E 6 T H A S E A N S C O U T J A M B O R E E
ASEAN recognizes scouting movement’s role in youth development LOUIE BRYAN LAPAT Senior Correspondent
29,753 TOTAL NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS IN THE 6TH ASEAN SCOUT JAMBOREE
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NUMBER OF COUNTRIES WHICH PARTICIPATED IN THE WEEK-LONG EVENT, INCLUDING NON-ASEAN COUNTRIES
Weather Forecast Facebook Account: 6th ASEAN Scout Jamboree (facebook.com/ASEANjam)
MARY CHRISTMA RICHI GULLE Correspondent
TAGUM CITY- Close to 30,000 scouts from twenty countries have converged to witness the commencement of the latest edition of the ASEAN Scout Jamboree last November 27, 2017 at the Energy Park, Tagum City. No less than House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez graced the grand opening ceremonies of the 6th ASEAN Scout Jamboree along with the bigwigs from the ASEAN Scout Association for Regional Cooperation (ASARC). The week-long international scouting event is participated in by contingents of nine ASEAN countries, including the Philippines, as well as those of Sri Lanka, East Timor, Nepal, Netherlands, Maldives, Macau, Kuwait, South Korea, India, Hong Kong and Bangladesh. Reportedly, the biggest delegation from among the 121 local councils of the BSP is the Davao City Council while the biggest contingent from the
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international participation is Indonesia, with 137 registered participants. The present jamboree which bears the theme, Growth and Stability, is the second of its kind to be held in the Philippines after the holding of the first ever ASEAN Scout Jamboree in Mt. Makiling more than twenty years ago. Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon, who serves as the Camp Chief, stated in his welcome message that the true essence of the event is to make friends, develop camaraderie and contribute to the growth and stability of the scouting movement in the ASEAN Region. He further said that the gathering of the scouts
WEDNESDAY 33° /23°C Periods of clouds and sun
Official Website: www.scouts.org.ph/aseanjam
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Mostly cloudy with showers
from across the world bears a sense of higher purpose to build friendships to solidify the region’s oneness. The local government unit of Tagum and the BSPTagum City Council which act as cohosts of this edition of the ASEAN Scout Jamboree, also treated the participants to a Parachute Exhibition and Airshow and a Pyro-Musical Fireworks Display as part of the opening activities. Notably, this is the second largest scouts gathering to have been held in Tagum City, after the 16th National Scout Jamboree of the BSP in 2015. A grand fireworks display ended yesterday’s elaborate opening ceremony.
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An afternoon thunderstorm
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community. Except for Laos, Atty. Avisado added that the presence alone of all national scouting organizations from all ASEAN member countries is already a manifestation of the strength of ASARC as an important force in youth development. Among the agenda laid on the table during the 9th ASARC meeting is the accreditation of ASARC as a recognized entity of the ASEAN, a long-time dream of the organization. During yesterday’s daylong meeting, a resolution was passed by ASARC en banc urging the national government of each country to endorse the accreditation of ASARC to the ASEAN community. Mr. Yoong Yoong reported hat the initial request of ASARC is already at the Senior Officials’ agenda on youth and education, respectively. He added that if all things will turn right, ASARC will secure its eventual accreditation by the second quarter of the year 2018. On his part, Tagum City Mayor Allan L. Rellon is bullish the proposal will enjoy a swift approval, given the scope of reach of ASARC among its member-countries in the ASEAN region.
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VOICE SCOUTS
AS THE ASEAN CELEBRATES ITS GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY, ONE OF OUR PRIORITIES IS THE YOUTH. WE REGARD ASARC AS A KEY STAKEHOLDER IN REACHING OUT TO THE YOUTH.
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ASIA’S LARGEST 6th ASEAN Scout Jamboree formally opened
Recognizing the pivotal role of the scouting movement in advancing the cause of the multination regional bloc, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) secretariat acknowledged the important contribution of the scouting movement in shaping the region’s future leaders. Director Lee Yoong Yoong, director of the Community Affairs Directorate of the ASEAN Secretariat, stressed the need to further maximize the huge potential of the scouting movement especially in the area of youth development. This developed as the scout leaders of the ASEAN Scout Association for Regional Cooperation (ASARC) convened in Tagum City yesterday for the ninth edition of its annual meeting where they tackled important matters pertaining to improving the state of scouting movement among ASEAN countries. “As the ASEAN celebrates its golden anniversary, one of our priorities is the youth. We regard ASARC as a key stakeholder in reaching out to the youth,” the ASEAN secretariat’s representative stressed during the highlevel meeting hosted by the Boy Scouts of the Philippines and BSP Tagum City Council yesterday, November 26, one day before the opening of the 6th ASEAN Scout Jamboree. Yoong Yoong added that while the scouting movement is a global organization, ASARC’s role in advancing youth-related programs is unique and therefore deserves to be fully maximized. He added that he is appreciative of the efforts of the scouting movement in honing the youth as it acknowledged that the youth sector cannot be fully covered alone by the ASEAN, and thus the need to partner with reputable institutions whose mission is on youth development like ASARC. ASARC Chairman and BSP National President Wendel E. Avisado for his part assured the ASEAN Secretariat of the regional federation of scouting movement’s continued push in strengthening the ASEAN
LEE YOONG YOONG
Director for Community Affairs Directorate ASEAN Secretariat
ASEAN JAM DAILY
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SHOW OF FORCE Security an utmost priority in Jamboree preps CATHY JANE FLORIDA & LESLIE JOY TAJALE Correspondent
Ensuring that the delegates would be free from any act of terrorism and criminality, security personnel intensified safety strategies for the whole duration of the 6th ASEAN Scout Jamboree, a Philippine National Police Information Officer said. According to Police Senior Inspector Lovely Mae Bitas, security methods include the anonymity of the security personnel where only police officers are knowledgeable of the color coding scheme. “This is one of the strategies made by the intelligence unit in order to achieve zero criminality for
the whole duration of the encampment and onwards,” Bitas said. On the other hand, PCI Junyd Marohom said that entering the camp requires identification cards to prevent intruders from causing harm. “You should always wear your IDs all the time. Upon entering, we are strictly prohibiting anybody to bring pointed objects, fire arms, any bladed weapons and flammable materials except for camping purposes,” Marohom said. Visitors are advised to secure a gate pass in case they need to go inside the venue.
COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS After the long-month terror drill of the PNP, Bitas stressed that inter-agencies of Davao Region are working along with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Maritime group, Coast guards and Air Force of the Philippines. “We have planned the expected challenges like bomb threats months before. During the self-deployment, we practiced simulation exercises to keep us ready in times of stampede or bomb attacks,” Bitas said. On the morning of
November 23, police and military officers gathered at the New City Hall for the security send-off. Mayor Rellon emphasized that security is of paramount concern. Despite the martial law, the local chief executive assured the scout leaders that Tagum in safe. More than 2,500 personnel were deployed to escort participants and be on the look-out. The scout leaders commended the city’s effort to secure the area adding that they’re putting their trust on Mayor Rellon.
Ahead of Jambo kick-off, Energy Park gets blessed ZIYARAH S. MANALO Correspondent
Tagum City, Davao del Norte —To cap off the preparation for the 6th ASEAN Scout Jamboree, a blessing and inauguration ceremony was held in Energy Park last Saturday, November 18, 2017. The event was spearheded by none other than the local chief executive of Tagum City, Mayor Allan L. Rellon and attended by Mr. Wendel Avisado, the President of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, the city officials, and employees.
Amounting to more than 33.7 million pesos, the LGU funded infrastructure projects include the rehabilitation of drainage system, concrete roads; construction of toilet and bath facilities, covered court, power house and water line with water pump; renovation of school gym, stage and bleachers, and concrete water catchment for Tagum National Trade School; development of evacuation center; and repainting of
scattered in various locations inside the site, the scouts are provided with enough information such as Jamboree Camp Rules and Regulations, General Program of activities and others throughout the entire duration of the event. Meanwhile, Maricar Diosdado, outfit adviser from Davao del Norte emphasized how she admired the preparation held by the city for the event. “For me it is very exciting and fabulous because the city
really made great preparation for the event,” said Diosdado.
SELF-ALERTNESS The Senior inspector advised the scouts to be vigilant and calm when there are inevitable events that will occur. “Follow the rules
and regulations inside the camp and be responsible in composing yourself and always be a good listener to your scout leaders,” Bitas concluded.
Scouting to remember 6th ASEAN Jamboree kicks off KRISTINE MAE MANLA Correspondent
Village of tents, camps and scouts from different cities and countries filled the energy park as they embarked with excitement and enthusiasm, moving forward on the first day of the 6th ASEAN Jamboree. Dispersed along the 25-hectare serene and verdant park, 29,568 participating scouts beefed up their scouting skills by building their respective tents along the horizons of the jamboree site getting ready for the week-long encampment.
The organization of camps was held by 12 subcamp assignments which include Subcamp 1-Kampong Ayer, Subcamp 2-Tagumpay, Subcamp 3-Borobudur, Subcamp 4-Tatamailau, Subcamp 5-Kinabalu, Subcamp 6-Pyu (Myanmar), Subcamp 7-Hamiguitan, Subcamp 8-Botanic Gardens, Subcamp 9-Ayutthaya, Subcamp 10-Preah Vihear, Subcamp 11-Halong and Subcamp 12-Adult Hub (CMT). Guided by Bulletin boards
Jann Andrea Argate, lady scout from Butuan City expressed her thoughts when asked about how she feels joining the 6th ASEAN Jamboree. “I’m honored knowing that not all scouts can join due to financial reason, I’m honored because I have parents who support me financially,” Argate added.
benches, monuments, and other facilities inside the Energy Park. These projects are the proof of the city’s efforts in securing a safe and wellequipped venue for the ASEAN Jamboree that will be attended by more than 25,000 scouts from all over the country and the ASEAN region including non-member countries like South Korea and Nepal to name a few. The event will kick off
with a grand parade followed by the Camp Chief’s reception and will end with the subcamp camp fire later in the evening. The jamboree will be concluded on December 2 with exciting arena shows. The City Information Office is set to update Tagumenyos on the happenings inside the camp for the whole duration of what is considered the last major ASEAN event this year following the chairmanship of the Philippines.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: www.scouts.org.ph/aseanjam
FACEBOOK ACCOUNT: 6th ASEAN Scout Jamboree (facebook.com/ASEANjam)
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Energy Park: Nucleus of Jamboree action The Energy Park is a vast area of greens that was culled from a once idle and reserved land. Developed by the City Government of Tagum in the late 1990s to the early 2000s, the 35-hectare location was shaped to become a social development complex as well as a public recreational park that is enjoyed not only by Tagumenyos but also by people from the neighboring towns and provinces. Legally acquired by the local government, the sprawling complex is also a government center where national-lined government offices are located to provide one-stop services for transacting public. Currently, the Energy Park houses the Tagum City Division of the Department of Education
(DepEd), the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). It is also the home of the various facilities under the direct management of the City’s Agriculture Office such as the Plant Nursery, Hydroponics, and Soil and Leaf Laboratory. The city’s Pasalubong Center near the entrance gate of the Energy Park serves to offer the visitors at the park with quality-made products such as handicrafts, among others, that are crafted by the hands of the artistic people of the city as well as of the province. The scenic and spacious lawn that is the Energy Park is a picnic site for families who opt to bond together on weekends
amidst the enveloping shroud of the many trees that dotted the park. Perhaps one of the more important features that the park can offer in relation to its being a social development complex is its capacity to serve as a site for camping and scouting activities that are frequently held such as the the annual scout camporals in the provincial and city level. The holding of the 2014 One Mindanao Scouts Jamboree which was participated in by close to 3,800 scouts from the 23 councils of Mindanao as well as the Eastern Mindanao Regional Rover Moot held in 2013 has clearly indicated the readiness of the Energy Park to house a larger gathering of crowd of people. The reputation of the
park as scouting location was cemented when it served as the venue for the 16th National Scout Jamboree of the Boys Scout of the Philippines in 2015 where a record number of more than 21,000 scouts from over 100 scouting councils in the country and 10 from abroad converged at the Energy Park during the week-long scouting activity. As a jamboree site, the park has truly delivered in terms of hosting activities that are physically demanding such as the Challenge Valley activities that were lined-up during these previous massive scouting activities. Interestingly, the scouting activities held at the Energy Park has spilled over to four other locations. These are the New City Hall grounds, the
University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP), the Tagum National Trade School (Trade School) and the Hijo Plantation in Barangay Madaum. The New City Hall of Tagum, a government facility that sits on a 15- hectare lot, was built according to the Australian type of Architectural Design of Sol Flores, an Australian-based architect. The four-storey structure is mostly in glass and steel and is said to be one of the most modern city hall in the country to date. The USEP and the Trade School are two adjacent educational institutions that are located within a walking distance from the Energy Park. The USEP is the lone state university in the city which offers tertiary education that
is mainly related to agriculture and forestry. The Trade School, on the other hand, is the only high school among the five main secondary schools in Tagum that offers a wide array of technical-vocational courses to its student body, thereby focusing on the development of the skills and technical education of the young men and women of the city. The Hijo Plantation in Madaum sits on the edge of the northern part of the Davao Gulf. Owned by the Tuazon Family, the plantation boasts of a sprawling beach, a vast river and a lush river, all of which will become the venue for several activities that are included in the scouting modules.
Medics remind scouts: No energy drinks EDWIN OSCAR GUTIERREZ, JR. Correspondent
Unity amidst diversity ASEAN Scout’s parade signals unity and brotherhood for scouts action SAMUEL DAN BERIDO Correspondent
Brotherhood and discipline has been the greatest traditions kept alive by many scouts all around the world. And from the sound of immense thuddedfoot, the scout’s parade of the 6th ASEAN Jamboree, themed Growth and stability, could be heard roaring with deafening excitement. Twisting volleys of cheer are what makes scout’s parade unique in its appearance. While brotherhood connects stories of diverse scouts, what a simple parade can do links not only the scout society, but also other nations. “It’s an exciting journey to be here
in the 6th ASEAN Scouts Jamboree,” said Scout Master Carlos Remundo from General Santos, “And after I’ve set my first leap joining my team on the parade, the future and the expectation of a greater experience immediately took my thoughts.” Traveling an hourly march across Tagum E-park’s vicinity, the showcase of various talents and culture could be seen in unity. Though differed uniforms and language separates them, the character of a scout defines them as a single group. “Other than scout badges, Scouting gave me an important
reward: friendship,” said Scout Jason Cardorroga from Silay City, Negros Occidental, “People across far regions are worth to meet, especially this is a onetime opportunity, it’s going to be a fun experience!” Unravelling the stories of diverse scouts from different regions and countries, the ASEAN Scout parade is what links diversity to unity. And while flags wave signaling the sign of brotherhood, a scout’s single leap— heaps a marveled unity.
“It has to be clean drinking water.” With the scouts’ hectic and rigorous activities lined up for their six days in the scout meet, the Jamboree medical team reminds the participants to maintain the daily intake of 800-1,000 milliliters of pure water to avoid health issues. “It (energy drinks) could trigger dysentery and LBM (Loose Bowel Movement),” explained medical team officer Dr. Richmond Abrasaldo, MD According to the Mayo Clinic in their website, water has numerous roles in maintaining vital bodily functions, such as regulating body temperature, preventing constipation, distributing nutrients, removing waste, and protecting organs. Aside from drinks, Abrasaldo also cautions against eating unfamiliar foods which may upset the newcomers’ stomach. “The most common cause
for LBM, especially in the pediatric group (21 years old and below) is food,” Abrasaldo explained, “don’t eat it if you’re not familiar.” He also cautioned against other water-borne diseases, such as typhoid fever and amoebiasis. Aside from clean water and food, the doctor added that keeping the body clean by having frequent baths is important. According to Abrasaldo, there has already been one case of LBM in the camp, a teacher from Butuan City currently under observation at the medical center, aside from a chickenpox patient who has been admitted to the Davao Regional Medical Center. Made up of staff from the DRMC and the Tagum City Health Office, the Jamboree medical facility can be found in the green building beside the Jambo Market.
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ACTIVITIES TODAY 7 AM - 6 PM AQUATICS AND WATER FUN DRRM -WATER SAFETY CAMPCRAFT ACTIVIES JUNGLE ADVENTURE TRAIL ASEAN FAITH AND BELIEF CROSSROADS OF CULTURE ASEAN BETTER WORLD VILLAGE
PHOTO OF THE DAY Photo by: ROY BANIAS
TEAM SPORTS FESTIVAL AND NATIVE GAMES DRRM - EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT VILLAGE
Stasis of Endurance in Variations of Numbers
COMMUNITY SERVICE CHALLENGE E-PARK CHALLENGE VALLEY
7 PM ASEAN SCOUTS CULTURAL NIGHT
REYNA GRACE A. TAGALICOD Correspondent
As the sun was delighted to parch the backwash of the December weather, 29, 568 scouts marched snappily in the opening parade succeeded by the opening program in the route intended for them. Everyone’s scout shoes were swamped. Flags were beckoning everyone to become one as advocates of growth and stability which the theme of this year’s ASEAN Jamboree accents. Nonetheless, the smiles of everyone vividly ignited together with the radiance of the sun amid difference in color, race, speech, and number. Moreso, of all figures, what matters most is the number of delegation per country participating in the aforementioned event. Instinctively, Philippines palpably grapples the place on top when it comes to the largest population; however, the interesting side will tell which foreign country snatches the greatest number of delegation in the 6th ASEAN Jamboree. Based on the statistics from the registrar, Indonesia dominated the counting. Their cluster exhibited their strength in
numbers through the 122 participants who defined their country through their pleasing gestures during the parade—their featly waving of flags and glowing smiles all throughout the duration of the parade. According to Sardianus, as IST (International Service Team) member from Indonesia, they had outmatched the ASEAN scouts crowd during the last ASEAN Scouts Jamboree held on September of last year in Malaysia. He made emphasis on how they were supported by their school and the government for provision of the necessities as per requisition. Additionally, everyone established innate camaraderie which every scout contains and showcased endurance upon sordid ground which can displease them but unanticipatedly merited them with bliss and the face of scouting. The sun never stopped them from redeeming the authentic face of scouting which braces them to building the tower of peace for all ASEAN parties.
A Challenge to Remember JET LEMUEL SALAZAR Correspondent
People enjoy the thrill of a perilous and adventurous obstacle better than walking down the easy, yet bland road. At least, that’s how it seemed when scouts were asked what they were excited the most for the 6th ASEAN Scout Jamboree. Many scouts-including foreign scouts- are looking forward for the exciting but dangerous Challenge Valley. The Challenge Valley’s intimidation only works if you’re either afraid of heights or have a phobia of frogs-yes, frogs. But still, a betting man would still bet on scouts being nervous at first. As was said before, the Challenge Valley has it’s fair share of frogs. This was made possible due to a certain challenge requiring you to crawl under
covers. It seems simple until you become a human mud sculpture and meet the slimy creatures. There is a chance of you touching them which is quite gross and icky. There’s also this scary bridge you have to walk to. It’s a bridge where the only thing you can step on is bamboo. This is incredibly difficult especially since these things tend to be slippery due to the other challenges that got the scout’s feet wet. Before you cross the bridge, praying would be a good thing to do. Finally, there is the main event of the Challenge Valley. At least that’s how it seemed as many scouts touted this to be the challenge they anticipate the most. It is the rappelling, the same activity shown
in the video packages for the Jamboree which probably caused the hype. But even without the videos, people would still look forward for it. Because, who doesn’t want to experience the fun of climbing up and down on a hundred foot wall? Well, except for the faint of heart. They say challenges build character, but in this case, challenges build and create memories. That’s probably why scouts look forward for the thrills of the challenge valley the most as this creates precious memories that will forever be treasured. The Challenge Valley is not just an anticipated event in the scouting module. It is also a challenge to remember.
Far from Home SARAH ELLA MARIE S. MATUGUINA Correspondent
Come hell or high water, the 6th ASEAN Scouts Jamboree has pushed through marked by the alluring parade of different yet, united flags from the 20 participating Southeast Asian countries held today, November 27, at Energy Park, Apokon Road, Tagum City. Upon arriving at the heart of the 6th ASEAN Scouts Jamboree, children looking up in awe to the drones soaring through the skies for a good vantage point are truly quite a sight and a show of innocence. Aside from the Senior Scouts participating in the jamboree, kids aged 9 and above are also ever present with their lively boisterous laughter and their bright yellow neckerchief standing out in the midst of the crowd. Traveling quite a distance is no joke. But, to travel with kids and knowing how to handle such energy is challenging yet rewarding when you see them giggling with excitement as they venture into a new place equipped with their scouting knowledge; slowly expanding their worlds and leaving the comforts of their homes for the first time. “It is very challenging especially when it comes to their personal necessities. For example, if they run out of water or when it’s time for a bath; managing children can be quite taxing.” Those were the words of Scout Leader Dennis Perdon from Antique, Philippines, as he talks about the hardships that a leader goes through especially when assigned to the KAB Scouts knowing that he, himself, becomes second parent by default in the duration of the activity. According to Perdon, his expectations fall mostly on his hopes that through the help of this event, the kids will learn to be independent and somehow, they can stand on their own feet. After all, independence is something that needs to be developed for youngsters to become responsible adults and what better way to do this than to engage them in a week-long scouting activity. Other leaders have also given their remarks about the first day of the jamboree. Among the many scout leaders present to serve as guides for their party was Tourism Scout Marten Endra of Indonesia. “Everything is very interactive, as expected. From the tents, to the location, up to the activities; very good,” says Endra giving praise to Tagum City’s accommodation and preparedness as they host the jamboree with a beaming smile.